Why the Maverick Run

There’s a reason why DLS-College of St. Benilde’s first open recreational street venture is called the Maverick Run. Benilde Partnership Officer Hillary Stacey Handayan explains it has to do with the qualities of being a thinker, innovator and trail-blazer who challenges norms towards meaningful change in their communities.

“At a time when physical and mental well-being have become more important than ever, the Maverick Run seeks to promote an active lifestyle,” says Handayan. “It recognizes health is foundational to learning, creativity and human flourishing. By encouraging movement and community participation, it aims to inspire individuals of all ages and abilities to embrace healthier lives.”

Benilde president Br. Edmundo (Dodo) Fernandez, a runner himself, is a proponent of a healthy lifestyle with the Maverick Run an extension of his advocacy. Br. Dodo is concurrently the president of La Salle Green Hills, De La Salle Lipa and Benilde so to stay on top of his responsibilities, it’s essential to be of sound mind and body. He’s also big on inclusion and innovation which is why the Maverick Run invites runners of all backgrounds, abilities and levels.

The event will be held at Parqal in ASEANA City on Nov. 28 and marks the emergence of Benilde’s Delfin J. Wenceslao, Jr. campus in the Parañaque central business district along Manila Bay. Distances and registration fees are 1.5k for P1,150, 5k for P1,400, 10k for P1,500 and 16k for P1,600. Runners in the 1.5k class may bring pets along. Race kits include a singlet, bib and timing chip. A bandana is available for pets. All participants will receive a finisher medal. A finisher shirt will be given to runners in the 5k to 16k categories. Cash prizes will be awarded to the top three finishers in each class. Registration is open until Nov. 25 through tinyurl.com/TheMaverickRun.

The 16k run will start at 3:30 a.m. then 10k at 4:30 a.m., 5k at 5:30 a.m. and 1.5k at 6 a.m. The 10k and 16k paths will encompass the inner ASEANA commercial grid and an extended southern coastal stretch toward Entertainment City. The routes provide a world-class, vibrant backdrop at Parqal, blending modern architecture with sustainable public spaces. Benilde sports director and 1992 Olympic bronze medalist in taekwondo (as a demonstration sport) Stephen Fernandez will be among the participants.